MILITARISM AMONG THE YOUNG.
Under the above heading the Union Signal heartily commends the following from the London Christian:— The growing custom of inviting distinguished soldiers to distribute the prizes at school on annual prize days is one that is not calculated to keep down the military sentiment at a time when the rising generation is already infected by it. Boys are peculiarly sensitive to the emotion of hero-worship,—and a successful soldier is always a great man to them. It is scarcely wise to strengthen this youthful tendency by giving a prominent place to those who have distinguished themselves on the field of war. The future of the country depends entirely on the pursuit of a peaceful and friendly policy. Militarism among the young is a most dangerous spirit at all times. Just at present it is specially undesirable to do anything, however indirect, to foster it. Now all this is true. The military spirit is dangerous, and it is especially sad that it should be inculcated as it has been in this land since the Spanish-American war. But (for there is a “but” in this connection) we would like to ask our W.C.T.U. friends, how much has their influence been cast in this direction,—not directly, perhaps, but not less effectually tho indirectly? War is and always has been one of the concomitants of civil government. The logic of the ballot oftentimes is the bullet. The force behind civil law is that which may be exerted physically, by the weapons that are carnal. When the church and the mothers of the church are forcing themselves into politics as a panacea for many ills; when they are calling for revenge on the Turk, why should not war be glorified? Are not the children taught by their elders? What mean the military drills and boys’ brigades? Surely all this is not the fruit of the Spirit of the Prince of peace.